Harper College

Dr. Julia Broome-Robinson

Dr. Julia Broome-Robinson photoDr. Julia Broome-Robinson is a trombonist and teacher currently based in Northern Illinois. Julia is currently Principal Trombone of the Fox Valley Orchestra, and has taught at Northern Illinois University, the University of Redlands, and Arizona State University — and most recently, here at Harper College. Julia is active in the Chicagoland region as a private brass instructor.

Julia’s doctoral thesis document, a series of three interviews with prominent professional women trombonists, was rooted in the desire to have challenging but necessary conversations with women about their experiences of sexism in their musical careers. She has presented lecture recitals on the work of female composers at international conferences, including the International Women’s Brass Conference — an organization she also serves as a member of the Conference Selection committee.

Julia is an active composer, often working with electronic media in combination with live instruments, and an arranger. Her arrangement of George Walker’s “Concerto for Trombone” was premiered at the 2022 ITF in Conway, Arkansas by the Northern Illinois University Trombone Choir. Her original works have been performed in both Canada and the United States.

Julia earned her doctorate in Trombone Performance from Arizona State University, where she studied with Dr. Brad Edwards. Prior to her doctoral studies, Julia completed an Artist Diploma degree at the University of Redlands in Redlands, CA, where she had a leading role in planning and executing the 2017 International Trombone Festival. Julia completed her Master of Music degree at the University of British Columbia, in Vancouver, BC, and her Bachelor of Music degree at Pacific Lutheran University, in Tacoma, WA.

As a teacher, Julia prioritizes the individual needs and interests of her students, while providing a methodical, detail-orientated approach to musical improvement. Julia seeks to balance high standards with supporting the “whole musician,” encouraging her students to do the necessary work to pursue their musical goals and realize their potential, while still supporting themselves mentally and emotionally along the sometimes stressful journeys of Higher Education and professional musicianship. In short, we must do the work to succeed, especially in today’s economic climate, but that work must be a sustainable practice if we are to maintain it for a lifetime.

Last Updated: 3/15/24